Bigpond BP3-EXT modem - vendor portability?

[slickstu]

Is it possible to use Bigpond USB Next G modems with other vendors. For instance, my Bigpond account is costing me a fortune but Vodafone have a great deal ATM. Unfortunately their modem has an internal antenna which I fear just won't cut it in my area. Could I use the telstra modem for the Vodafone service?

[Jumpingmanjim]

Nope

[slickstu]

Incompatible hardware or is the modem locked?

[bit_pit]

The NextG gear is 850Mhz, the other 3G services are up around 2100Mhz.

While I have found NextG pretty good , it is expensive. Both Optus and Vodafone have much better deals.
Might be better just to cut losses and sign up with Voda....BUT...make sure they have coverage where you are, the coverage tests my company performed were less than expected with either Voda or Optus.

[dainen]

Contrary to the previous postings, i have a Bigpond BP3-EXT and currently use an Optus Prepaid SIM in it.

They do connect to other networks and i even use the bigpond software to do it.

All that is needed is to change the APN (Access Point Name) and SIM depending on which provider you need.

To date i have not tested Vodafone, but will do in the next few days.

A useful link i found to get it all up n running.

[slickstu]

Cheers Dainen. I'll look into that!

[Sasho]

I think you will find the Bigpond BP3-EXT modem is locked to the next g network & the modem is a 850/2100 mhz modem. You will have to unlock your modem by calling up bigpond.